Most people follow a traditional path of settling down with a partner, working a 9-5 desk job and buying a forever home. But that life isn’t for everyone. And if you’re one of those wanderlust, free-spirit types, living in a travelling home like an RV will allow you to explore and experience things you may not have been able to otherwise. Everything from making money to downsizing can be a challenge, but if you follow these tips, you’ll be a full time RVer in no time.
1. Know What You’re Getting Yourself Into
Before you make the decision to sell your home or move out of your rental and start your adventurous lifestyle, go on a few practice runs. Take your RV on an extended vacation and talk to others who have RV-living experience to get a sense of what you can expect.
2. How Will You Pay Your Way?
If you’re lucky, there’s a chance that you can score a remote job, allowing you to work from wherever you’d like. Freelancing is another great option for someone living in a travelling home. Research seasonal or temporary jobs before you hit the road and plan your route and destinations accordingly.
3. Determine How Much Space You Need
The number of people who plan to reside in your RV home will help determine the amount of space you will need to live comfortably. On your test vacations, take notice of how you handle daily space constraints, such as storage space for clothes, food and other items, cooking, dining, sleeping and bathing.
4. Pair Down Your Essentials
If you’re determined to live on the road, the size of your ride will ultimately determine the real essentials you’ll need. Before you make your move, go through your home inventory and get rid of the non-essential items. These can include a range of items, from clothing to kitchen utensils.
5. Consider Maintenance and Repairs
Before you pack up and start your new life on the road, get very familiar with your RV owners manual. Read and research how to handle any possible repairs and understand how to maintain the quality of your vehicle to keep it in tip-top shape. Create a routine for inspections and maintenance per your manual and ensure that all others who live with you know and understand these needs.
6. Ensure You’re Insured
Just like a home, you will need to be insured, even when you’re living on the road. Be sure to get coverage for replacement value, in case of damage or theft, as well as coverage on personal belongings. Keep your insurers updated on any places you may stay for longer periods of time or of any upgrades or prominent renovations to your RV.
7. Stay Connected to Family and Friends
In today’s world, the internet is extremely important. And if you plan to live in a travelling home, being able to connect to family, friends and potentially work, you will have to find a way to access WiFi. Satellite dishes can now be installed in RVs, keeping you connected and up-to-date wherever you go.
8. Find Your “Permanent” Address
If you’ve decided RV living is right for you, leaving your address behind is the first step. But, you still need to provide a permanent legal address for your license, voting registration, bank accounts, medical documents and more. Every state has different laws for traveling residents, so, if possible, find one that works best for your new lifestyle.
